The YMCA of Greater Brandywine and the Kennett Consolidated School District have teamed up to address the many challenges students are facing after months of isolation and virtual learning due to the pandemic.

According to a recent report from McKinsey and Company, students have likely suffered up to nine months of learning loss.

“We all know the pandemic has taken a toll, but at the YMCA, we’re excited to see our community beginning to emerge as more people are vaccinated,” said Denise Day, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. “We’re thrilled to partner with KCSD and leverage the strengths of our organizations to help the children in our community begin to thrive again, while having a safe and fun-filled summer.”

This summer, YGBW and KCSD are providing a fully funded program, known as Summer Academy, that will serve up to 300 students entering first through sixth grades. Summer Academy, which will be offered four full days per week for five weeks, will help students advance their academic achievement through small group activities, hands-on enrichment, service projects, and more. 

KCSD is providing transportation for students, whose day will begin at 8:30 AM with three hours of academic instruction led by KCSD. Next, they will enjoy lunch provided by KCSD. Their afternoon will be devoted to a myriad of activities developed and facilitated by the Kennett Area YMCA team — fitness, science and nature, arts and crafts, games, and more — providing the social enrichment and physical activity kids need. Each week will also provide a different theme (such as the Wild West Frontier, A Pirate’s Life, and Superheroes) to ensure the kids have some much-needed fun.

After camp care from 3:30-6 PM, as well as care on Fridays, is available for a small fee at the Kennett Area YMCA’s Camp Lenni Lenape. Thanks to many generous donors, financial assistance is available to those who are in need. Friday programming will include swimming and traditional camp activities. For more information, contact the Kennett Consolidated School District.

Camp counselors are currently being hired to support the social and emotional development of the students in the program. Starting rate is $12 per hour. Additionally, financial contributions are being solicited to help support students who want to attend the enrichment program on Friday. For more information, contact Patti Campbell, Chief Development Officer, at pcampbell@ymcagbw.org or 610-643-9622 ext. 2153.